Aspartame (Synonyms: L-Aspartyl-L-Phenylalanine methyl ester)

Aspartame (SC-18862) is an artificial, non-saccharide sweetener used as a sugar substitute in some foods and beverages.

Aspartame (SC-18862) is a flavoring agent sweeter than sugar. Aspartame (SC-18862) is a methyl ester of a dipeptide used as a synthetic nonnutritive sweetener. Epidemiological studies on aspartame include several case-control studies and one well-conducted prospective epidemiological study with a large cohort, in which the consumption of aspartame was measured. The studies provide no evidence to support an association between aspartame and cancer in any tissue. The weight of existing evidence is that Aspartame (SC-18862) is safe at current levels of consumption as a nonnutritive sweetener[1]. Aspartame (SC-18862) is safe, and there are no unresolved questions regarding its safety under conditions of intended use[2]. Excessive Aspartame (SC-18862) ingestion might be involved in the pathogenesis of certain mental disorders (DSM-IV-TR 2000) and also in compromised learning and emotional functioning[3].

References:
[1]. Magnuson, B.A., et al., Aspartame: a safety evaluation based on current use levels, regulations, and toxicological and epidemiological studies. Crit Rev Toxicol, 2007. 37(8): p. 629-727.
[2]. Butchko, H.H., et al., Aspartame: review of safety. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol, 2002. 35(2 Pt 2): p. S1-93.
[3]. Humphries, P., E. Pretorius, and H. Naude, Direct and indirect cellular effects of aspartame on the brain. Eur J Clin Nutr, 2008. 62(4): p. 451-62.